ICP-MS: ADVANCED TRAINING ON METHOD VALIDATION AND UNCERTAINITY MEASUREMENT

Since the introduction of Inductively Coupled Plasma – Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP OES) in 1974, and Inductively Coupled Plasma  Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) in 1980, these techniques have revolutionised the simultaneous analysis of major, trace and ultra-trace elements in  a wide range of sample matrices. Currently, these instruments are used extensively in diverse areas such as mining, manufacturing, food, and environmental testing. Through a combination of various digestion techniques, samples ranging from high fat foods (such as processed meat, butter) to refractory materials (such as automotive catalysts, ores, soils), can be dissolved, and their elemental content reliably determined. These measurements can be performed with very high  accuracy and precision. This training will provide an overview of the basic  operating principles of both ICP-OES and ICPMS, focussing on sample preparation, instrument set-up (impact of sample introduction systems), method development, validation as well as quality control aspects. Additionally, an overview will  be provided on basic maintenance and trouble shooting. Participants will be introduced to recent developments, such as elemental speciation. 

• Overview of mass spectrometry and its applications• Principles of inductively  coupled plasma and ionization• Key components of an ICP-MS system (plasma  torch, ion optics, mass analyzer, detector)• Instrumentation and Setup Detailed discussion of ICP-MS components• Types of mass analysers • Sample introduction systems• Understanding sensitivity, resolution, and dynamic range• Method Development• Instrument setup and calibration for sample analysis • Preparation and analysis samples for various matrices • Running ICP-MS   methods: step-by step guidance • Understanding mass spectra and interpreting results • Quantification methods and the creation of calibration curves• Software tools for data processing and reporting• Data Analysis and Interpretation.